Many modern families have a tough time balancing work, school and activities. With so much going on, it may seem difficult to raise a healthy family, which would be defined as one that is physically active, eats nutritionally balanced food and is emotionally happy. Excessive amounts of fast food, junk food, television and video games can have a negative effect on the health of a family.
Step 1
Begin teaching healthy habits early in your child's life, since parents of older children often discover that bad habits are hard to break. Feed babies and toddlers fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean meats so they will acquire a taste for healthy foods. Play with babies and young children often. Limit television watching to one hour a day or less.
Step 2
Live a healthy lifestyle as a parent, to set a good example. Do not be hypocritical, as children learn by what they see. Show children how excited you are to workout or how much you like your salad. Do not refer to healthy foods like vegetables or fruit as "gross" or in other negative ways, or a child will be hesitant to try them.
Step 3
Exercise together in fun, creative ways. Walk to the park on weekends and bring a soccer or basketball to play with. Purchase a large outdoor trampoline for the entire family to get a fun workout together. Go swimming or explore nature with a hike. Encourage physical activity that a child gets excited about. Find other relaxing evening activities, besides television and video games. Try unwinding together with yoga or meditation.
Step 4
Feed your family healthy foods by preparing simple, nutritious, easy recipes. Simmer healthy, hearty turkey chili all day in a crock pot so it will be ready at dinner time. Allow children to help prepare foods in kitchen. Assign children age appropriate tasks when preparing a new food, so they will be excited to try it. Take a family trip to a local farmers market so everyone can pick out seasonal, fresh ingredients. Turn vegetables into a delicious soups that everyone will love.
Step 5
Play board games and read together for family bonding time.Treat each other with love and respect, since good emotional health is vital to a healthy family. Limit stress at home, and talk to each other. Make home a comfortable place, where children and adults alike feel love and nurtured. Make sure to open the lines of communication by letting a child know that they are allowed to discuss different topics and open up. Let them know that you appreciate who they are. Boost their confidence with positive reinforcement and love.
